Essex Historic Houses

Audley End House & Gardens 

Built by Thomas Howard, Earl of Suffolk in the early 17th century, the house and gardens are surrounded by an 18th century  'Capability Brown' designed landscaped park. You can visit the working organic garden extending nearly 10 acres, including a 19th century vine house and purchase produce form the shop.

Audley end, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JF  Tel: 01799 522842

Copped Hall

This Hall is a shell of an 18^th century Palladian mansion which currently under restoration. Situated on ridge overlooking excellent landscaped park. Ancillary buildings including stables and small racquets court . There are former elaborate gardens being rescued from being abandoned. There is a large early 18^th century walled garden

Crown Hill, Epping, CM16 5HH  Tel: 0207 2671679  Email

Hylands House

A grade II listed villa with its neo-classical exterior is surrounded by over 500 acres of parkland including formal gardens. The library, drawing room and saloon  have been restored to their early Victorian period. The entrance hall has been restored to its Georgian origins. There is a Victorian staircase, but has not yet been restored. Recent restoration has included the a Victorian banqueting room and the small Georgian dining room, as well as the original cellar circa 1730.

Hylands Park, London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ  Tel: 01245 496800

Ingatestone Hall

A 16^th century mansion, set in 11 acres of grounds with a formal garden and wild walk. Built by Sir William Petre who was Secretary of State to four Tudor monarchs. The Hall has remained in the hands of his family ever since. There are two Priests’ “hiding places” as well as the furniture, portraits and family artefacts collected over the centuries.

Hall Lane, Ingatestone, CM4 9NR  Tel: 01277 3533010

Layer Marney Tower

Built in the reign of Henry VIII by Lord Henry Marney, this the the tallest Tudor gatehouse in Great Britain.  The Tower has some of the finest terracotta work in the country, most probably worked by Flemish craftsmen trained by Italian masters. The terracotta is used on the battlements, windows, and on the tombs of Henry and John Marney. Visitors may climb the Tower, passing through the History Room, and enjoy superb views of the Essex countryside. There are fine outbuildings, including the Long Gallery with its magnificent oak roof and the medieval barn which now houses some of the Home Farm’s collection of rare reed farm animals.

Nr Colchester, CO5 9US  Tel: 01206 330784  Email